Hyundai has released the first rendering of the next-generation i30, revealing an exciting new look for the company’s bestselling C-segment hatchback, set for its world premiere at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September.

The all-new i30 was designed and engineered at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and represents a further evolution of the unique form language, ‘fluidic sculpture’ – the company’s distinctive design DNA.

The ‘fluidic sculpture’ ethos utilises flowing lines inspired by nature and modern architecture to give a constant three-dimensional presence to Hyundai vehicles, and was introduced on the Hyundai ix-onic concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Since this debut, ‘fluidic sculpture’ has been the design language behind all new Hyundai models launched in Europe.

“When designing the all-new i30, we used strong, fluid lines to sculpt a car which looks athletic while exuding a sense of constant motion, even when stationary. From the rendering, you can see how we managed to give the car a bold stance, transmitting a confident attitude through sporty characteristics and dynamic proportions. In this way, the car is very close to the recently unveiled i40, and we want people to recognize the Hyundai design DNA on those two models,” commented Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre.

“The hexagonal appearance is unique to Hyundai, with the jewel-like front headlamps which flank the grille adding a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury,” Thomas Bürkle added.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented, “We expect this next-generation i30 to play a significant role in developing our brand image in Europe and strengthen the vehicle’s position as our best-seller in Europe. Since 2007, the name ‘i30’ has become synonymous with ‘quality’, ‘reliability’ and ‘low emissions’ in Europe, and we hope that, amongst others, the terms ‘emotional appeal’ and ‘style’ will be added to the list with the introduction of this dynamic new model.

“Under our brand slogan ‘New Thinking. New Possibilities.’, our European team of designers have sculpted a car which truly looks at home on European roads thanks to its bold and confident appearance. We are very excited about revealing the car for the first time in Frankfurt next month,” Allan Rushforth added.